A contentious proposal to transform a terraced house in Smethwick into a combination of a shop and flats has been rejected by Sandwell Council, but the applicant is now appealing the decision to the government’s planning inspectorate.
The application sought permission to convert the property on Shireland Road, Cape Hill, into a ground-floor shop with a two-storey, two-bedroom flat above. Manjit Singh Samra, the applicant, aims to proceed despite the council’s refusal.
Local residents voiced strong opposition, with one objector describing the situation as akin to “living in a prison,” and another expressing concern about being “surrounded by more shops than homes.” These sentiments reflect unease over the impact the development could have on the character of the residential street.
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Sandwell Council cited concerns that approving the scheme would isolate a remaining terraced house between two commercial units, thereby “significantly harming” the living conditions of its occupants. Planning officers also criticised the proposed flats for being cramped and failing to meet minimum space standards, concluding they would provide a “substandard” living environment.
The plans also included a single-storey extension, a new shopfront, a loft conversion, and a rear dormer window.
In their official report, the council’s planners highlighted that no justification was given as to why the shop could not be situated within Cape Hill’s main shopping area. They further noted:
“The proposed change of use from residential to commercial would result in a single remaining dwelling being positioned between two commercial units. The adjoining residential property already experiences elevated levels of noise and disturbance due to its proximity to an existing commercial unit. The introduction of an additional commercial use within the terrace would increase comings and goings, general activity, and associated noise. This would exacerbate the existing situation and would be detrimental to the residential amenity of adjoining and nearby occupiers.”
Mr Singh’s appeal to the planning inspectorate means the final decision now rests with an independent body, which has the authority to overturn the council’s rejection. Meanwhile, local residents remain apprehensive about the prospect of additional shops impacting the primarily residential street.